Reporting concerns

Concerns may be reported anonymously. Sometimes it helps if we can speak with the person reporting so that we may obtain further information or clarify certain points about the information disclosed. In any case the decision is yours and we will preserve your anonymity, if you so wish, throughout our involvement.

What do we do?

When you contact a professional about your concern regarding a vulnerable adult, we will make initial inquiries before taking action. Those inquiries are dependent upon the circumstances but may include finding out if the adult and/or their abuser are known to services, such as Health, Police and Social Service professionals.

By collating information we are able to form a clearer picture which will help us to make the best decisions with the involvement of the adult concerned.

All information will be treated seriously and acted upon. This may lead to immediate action or a more planned response. You will be advised of the general outcome of our investigation into your concerns.

The Legislation

The Adult Support and Protection (Scotland) Act 2007 provides a legal basis to offer support and protection to adults who may be at risk of harm or neglect. The ethos of this legislation is about balancing people's rights and taking action, where necessary, to support and protect them.

This Act focuses upon an 'adult at risk' of harm which is defined as a person aged 16 years or over, who may be unable to protect themselves from harm, exploitation or neglect, because of a

disability,

mental disorder or mental Illness,

physical or mental infirmity.

What do we mean by harm?

Harm is defined as all harmful behaviour and may include for example:

Physical

hitting, slapping, pushing, shaking or confining in a place

Psychological

threats, humiliation, intimidation and verbal abuse

Neglect

failure to provide medical or physical care, access to a doctor or other services, or denying someone medication, food or heating, privacy or dignity, self-neglect

Financial

stealing, fraud, pressure to hand over or sign over property or money, misuse of property or welfare benefits, or stopping someone getting their money or possessions